Erichsen’s disease

a disorder characterized by back pain and other spinal symptoms that was first identified in 1866 (at a time when railroad transportation was becoming increasingly popular) and was believed to be a result of railroad accidents. As the state of medicine advanced, it was realized that these symptoms were not of organic origin but may have indicated either malingering or a psychogenic disorder that may have been a precursor to posttraumatic stress disorder. Also called railway spine. [John Eric Erichsen (1818–1896), British surgeon]

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

colitis

n. inflammation of the colon, the main part of the large intestine. Colitis may be caused or aggravated by emotional disturbances, such as depression or anxiety.